Ukraine Receives New Batch of Kozak-2M1 and Kozak-5 MRAP Vehicles.

On April 24, 2024, the Minister of Defense, Rustem Umerov, oversaw the transfer of crucial military resources to the 225th Assault Battalion of the Ukrainian Ground Forces. An essential element of this transfer is the receipt of MRAP vehicles Kozak-2M1 and Kozak-5, locally produced vehicles in Ukraine. The need for vehicles capable of withstanding mine explosions or IEDs remains significant, despite Ukraine being on the defensive.
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Ukraine Receives Kozak-2M1 and Kozak-5 MRAP Vehicles. (Picture source: Ukrainian MoD)

The focal point of the transfer was the delivery of Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles, notably the Kozak-2M1 and Kozak-5 variants. These MRAPs, renowned for their robust design and advanced protective features, represent a vital addition to Ukraine's arsenal, particularly in ensuring the security and effectiveness of ground operations.

The Kozak-2M1 and Kozak-5 MRAPs are designed to withstand the rigors of modern warfare, including the threat posed by improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and ambush attacks. Equipped with cutting-edge technology and reinforced armor, these vehicles offer increased survivability for troops operating in high-risk environments, providing a crucial layer of defense against asymmetric threats. The decision to allocate these MRAPs to the 225th Assault Battalion underscores the government's commitment to equipping its armed forces with the necessary tools to protect national security.

The Kozak, an armored personnel carrier, is the result of development initiated between 2008 and 2009, with its design led by NPO Practika, a Ukrainian company. It entered production with a prototype in 2009, followed by serial production from 2014 onwards. Weighing 5.5 tons, it measures 5.475 meters long, 1.95 meters wide, and 2.3 meters high, with a capacity for a crew of five. Powered by a 176 horsepower diesel engine, the Kozak is equipped with a 4x4 suspension, allowing it to reach a maximum speed of 120 km/h. Its improved version, the Kozak-2M1, is designed for use as a tactical combat vehicle, enhancing its operational capabilities in demanding environments.

As for the Kozak-5, it stands out as a specialized vehicle for police operations and special forces. Based on the commercial Ford F550 chassis with a 6.7L engine, it benefits from special modifications made according to Ford's official conversion, known as "DBL Design." This special version offers increased versatility for special missions and tactical operations, capitalizing on the reliability and robustness of the Ford chassis while adapting the vehicle to the specific requirements of law enforcement and special units.

The delivery of vehicles capable of resisting Russian mines is therefore always good news for the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Given that the terrain remains extremely mined, such vehicles are more than relevant, even if Ukraine has recently shifted to a defensive stance.

Defense News April 2024